Show runs Friday-Sunday at fairgrounds
IMLAY CITY — The 36th Annual Woods-N-Water News Outdoor Weekend returns this weekend to the Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds.
The show opens at 3 p.m. this Friday, Sept. 9 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 11.
“We have lined up an outstanding event for showgoers starting with great outdoor retailers, educational displays and exhibits with just about every type of product for outdoor enthusiasts,” said Woods-N-Water News Editor Tom Campbell.
“There’s also a bunch of great entertainment to take in too from jumping dogs and artistic chainsaw carvers to Native American storytellers and dancers, a climbing wall and lots of food, refreshments and puppies.”
Learn about Native American culture from Reg Pettibone and family members.
New this year
The card game that finds its way into many Michigan deer camps will be the star of a new show feature, the Cribbage Challenge. Guests will have a chance to play with some of the best players from across the U.S. The experts will also be doling out tips, tactics, and strategies for players of all levels.
The always popular Puppy Tent area will also be new and approved for the 2022 show thanks to help from the Michigan Hunting Dog Federation and Lapeer County Animal Control.
“Animal Control officers will assist puppy breeders, sellers and buyers in understanding the importance of canine health,” Campbell said.
Most major hunting breeds will be represented.
Animal attractions
Showgoers will have many opportunities to see live animals up close and in person and see others testing their skills.
The Michigan Avian Experience will host Raptor Meet and Greets at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. This organization seeks to educate the public about raptors and conservation efforts using non-releasable, native birds in their presentations.
Similarly, the Michigan Hawking Club will also have various raptors on display throughout the weekend under the exhibitor tent where visitors can learn more about their efforts to preserve the sport of falconry and the conservation of birds of prey.
In the realm of other animal-centric attractions, Milt Wilcox’s Ultimate Air Dogs Championships will also return to the 2022 Outdoor Weekend.
Show attendees are encouraged to take part with their four-legged companions. Organizers will demonstrate each game—Fetch It, Chase It and Catch It—followed by a practice session before the event starts.
For more information about the games and a fee for participating, visit ultimateairdogs.net.
Experts in their fields
Seminars and demonstrations from some of the nation’s top experts also return.
See traditional archer Byron Ferguson display his renowned skills; Steve and Sue Francis of Almont’s own Country Smoke House return with a 2:30 p.m. field dressing demonstration on Saturday; and see Reg Pettibone and family members share their Native American culture through interpretive dance and artifact displays.
Experts known for making a great pot of chili will also be on hand for Saturday’s Camp Chili Cook-off. Judging starts at 3 p.m. and contestants will be competing for cash prizes.
Of course, outdoor enthusiasts can find the latest gear, vehicles, tools and gadgets for their next trip into the woods or water.
Show hours are Friday, Sept. 9 from 3-9 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is $10 per person and kids 12 and under are free.
For more information, visit outdoorweekend.net or call 810-724-0254.
